"EXCITING" ideas on how to spend half-a-million pounds on Ludlow are wanted.

Brainwaves are in demand from anyone who is switched-on about Ludlow's unfulfilled needs. But the views are also in order from those who would like to see particular town assets protected from change.

This is the message that came out of a public meeting to launch work in earnest on plans to seize for the town, funds available from the Government Market Town's Initiative scheme.

Nearly 50 townspeople gathered at the Bishop Mascall Centre in Ludlow to look at inspiring exhibitions of improvement projects so far and to learn more about how Ludlow can tap into the new pot of gold.

Anything from plans for a skateboard area and other leisure facilities for the young to improving the environment of the town and bus links could be part of the brief.

However, any ideas would also have to be linked in with an overall aim to improve the economy and employment in the town to fit the brief.

The meeting, organised by Ludlow Town Council clerk Paul Russell for the Ludlow Marches Partnership was to launch officially the Ludlow and Hinterland Market Town Initiative with the warning that residents must come up with "a vision" by March if the town is to benefit.

Townspeople were also urged to nominate members for the organising committee to ensure as wide a possible representation as possible.

Ludlow Residents Association stalwart Alison Cundall told the meeting: "It's important we go out and tell people to get in touch with us and get enthused.

"We have a problem these days which is that people know what is going on in America and in Iraq but they don't always know what is going on in heir own streets."

She said that by March, the town must be able to present properly worked out projects to Advantage West Midlands. To this end a project officer was being appointed soon to manage the scheme affecting Ludlow and Cleobury Mortimer.

Anyone who can help should contact the town clerk at the Buttercross.